Record crowds flocked to Anzac Day services across the Central Coast on Thursday, April 25.
Central Coast District Council of RSLs President Greg Mawson said sub-branches over the entire region had been reporting huge increases in attendee numbers over previous years.
Mawson, who is also President of the Gosford Sub-branch, said the 100th anniversary of the Gosford cenotaph had swelled attendance numbers.
“It was the biggest crowd we’ve ever had at both the dawn and main services,” he said.
“We had contacted descendants of those listed on the cenotaph and Guides, Scouts and Air Force cadets led the main march carrying pictures of them.
“There must have been 100 children marching and I wanted them to lead the parade so people could appreciate the young people taking part.
“We are seeing more and more young people attend services on Anzac Day, which is wonderful.
“There was a time when Anzac Day seemed to be not discussed in schools but now there seems to be a resurgence in interest.
“If they learn about it at school they are going to keep it going.
“When I called for schools to lay wreaths they just kept coming.”
The Entrance/Long Jetty Sub-branch President Les Mackie said there was a record crowd of about 12,000 at the dawn service, with up to 8,000 attending the march and main service.
“I’ve been involved in Anzac Day here since 2004 and I’ve never seen a bigger dawn service crowd,” he said.
Services at Terrigal, Woy Woy and Toukley also reported large numbers.
Member for Wyong David Harris, who attended Sydney services this year as Minister for Veterans, said Anzac Day was a time to come together and pay tribute to the Anzacs who served in World War One, and all the brave servicemen and servicewomen who have since followed in their footsteps.
“Anzac Day gives the community an opportunity to pay their respects to those who have served our country,” he said.
“I attended an Anzac Day Service on the Harbour Bridge for the first time and it was a special location to pause and remember all who have served our nation, allowing us the freedoms we (have) today.”